(HealthDay News) -- Before having major surgery, it may be helpful to get a second opinion on whether the procedure is medically necessary.

The U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services suggests getting a second opinion if your doctor says you need non-emergency surgery.

The agency suggests:

• Ask the first doctor to send your medical records to the doctor giving the second opinion -- to avoid having to repeat tests.
• Call the second doctor's office to make sure it has your records.
• Jot down questions to take with you to the appointment.
• Ask a loved one to go with you.